UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Researchers in Penn State's College of Engineering and Ontario Tech University’s Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science (FEAS) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) that taps into the engineering and applied sciences strengths of both institutions. The MOU was initiated by Akhlesh Lakhtakia, Evan Pugh University Professor and Charles G. Binder Professor of Engineering Science and Mechanics at Penn State, and Moustafa El-Gindy, professor in the FEAS at Ontario Tech University.

"The Ontario Tech Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science is excited about the opportunities to advance research and innovation through this partnership with Penn State,” said Hossam Kishawy, dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science at Ontario Tech University. “Both institutions value integrity, inclusion and ingenuity, and recognize the vital role of exchanging knowledge and educational experience to drive forward the field of engineering."

The five-year agreement aims to enhance Ontario Tech and Penn State’s research, innovation and educational excellence a variety of collaborative endeavors, including:

• Professional training programs.
• Faculty and scholar exchanges.
• Joint research projects and educational programs.
• Exchange of scientific materials, publications and information.
• Joint seminars and other academic events.

"Global collaborations position the Penn State College of Engineering for success and contribute to our overall mission as a land-grant institution,” said Tonya Peeples, Harold and Inge Marcus Dean of Engineering in the college. “We look forward to the potential for funding joint research projects and knowledge exchange that this agreement may help enable."

For more information on how to get involved with these activities, please contact Akhlesh Lakhtakia at akhlesh@psu.edu.